June 16, 2026

June 2026 Update: Graduation!

One of the great privileges I have is speaking to the students in James Tealy’s “Impacting Culture as a Christian in the Entertainment Industry” class at Belmont University each semester. This spring, I met with the 14 students enrolled in the class and shared the story of a man named Bob Briner. I spoke about my experiences with him and how his book Roaring Lambs changed the course of my life. I also explained how that influence has led me to dedicate my life to helping young people who want to make a meaningful impact in the entertainment world understand the importance of keeping Jesus as their North Star.

After that, I pulled together several questions for them that challenged a group discussion with questions like:

We talked about how Christians have largely retreated into a safe subculture rather than engaging the broader culture, and I asked questions like, “Do you see evidence of that bubble on a campus like Belmont? What does it look like in your friendships, your playlists, and your career goals?” Interestingly, two of the students were Catholic, and they said they had to learn about the “Christian bubble.” That's when I had an "a-ha" moment: Catholics are generally not nearly as insulated within the Christian bubble as Evangelical Christians. That observation may give you something to think about.

Briner believed that mediocre “Christian” work actually hurts the cause and that the standard has to be world-class for it to matter. Do you agree? Can you think of examples in music, film, writing, or art where quality opened a door that a “message” alone never could have?

Name someone, living or historical, who you think embodies what Briner was calling for: a person of deep faith who engaged their field with excellence and left a mark on the broader culture. What made them effective? Honestly, what would it take for you to become that person in your own lane? After our discussion, I passed out cards and asked the students to give me their dreams and visions of what it would mean for them to apply Roaring Lambs thinking in their careers and lives. We prayed together and took this picture, and for a moment, I felt like I was hugging my children. These students love Jesus, and they are all in college to learn the entertainment world.

Somewhere 20 years down the road from now, some of these students will be making decisions that affect the way entertainment reaches us, and I’m praying that they will remember moments like this night. Many thanks to James Tealy for allowing me the opportunity to speak to the class. I would ask you to pray for the faces you see in the picture above, that they would each find their Roaring Lambs calling.

Barry: Brett, you grew up in Houston with your eyes set on becoming a doctor. What changed?

Brett: It’s funny how life redirects you. When I realized medicine wasn’t my path, my parents could have pushed back hard. Instead, they said, “Follow what God put in you.” That freedom to pursue music and business in Nashville — that was a gift I don’t take lightly.

Barry: You've talked about family being your foundation. How did that shape who you are?

Brett: My dad has built me into a man who leads with love. My mom has been a rock through every hard season. They've kept me humble and honest — and honestly, my dream job is to be a father someday, because of the example they set. Everything I do, in some way, traces back to them.

Barry: You recently interned with Pivot Music's Barry Landis and encountered the Roaring Lambs philosophy — the idea that Christians can transform culture through excellence in entertainment. Did it resonate?

Brett: Deeply. I knew the concept, but seeing it lived out was different. At every event, people from every corner of the industry — voice actors, copyright attorneys, filmmakers — were simply showing up to serve and connect. And the first thing out of everyone's mouth was always, "If you need anything, let me know." That's not networking. That's love in action. That's what a roaring lamb looks like.

Barry: You mentioned a trip to London through Belmont where you actually got songs placed in a catalog. What was that like for a college student?

Brett: Honestly, surreal. You're sitting in a classroom in Nashville, and then suddenly you're in London writing music for sync opportunities — and two of them actually got placed. It was one of those moments where you think, this is real, this can actually happen. Belmont opened that door, but walking through it taught me that preparation and opportunity have a way of finding each other when you stay ready.

Barry: What kind of work are you hoping to do in the music industry?

Brett: I want to be the fuel that gets someone's fire going. Whether it's artist development, creative strategy, or music supervision — I love finding the raw material in a person and helping build something that connects with the world, while keeping their authenticity intact. I want to help people achieve their dream.

Barry: You've spent time working with the Briner Institute and its Roaring Lambs philosophy. Has that shaped the way you see your future in this industry?

Brett: Absolutely. Working with The Briner Institute and seeing Roaring Lambs lived out — not just talked about — changed something in me. I already knew the business was about who you know, but this was different. At every event, people from every walk of the industry were there simply because they love people and they love entertainment. Voice actors, copyright attorneys, filmmakers — all volunteering, all saying the same thing: "If you need anything, let me know." That's not a networking strategy. That's love in action. And honestly, it's given me a high bar of hope going into an industry that can be grueling. I now know it's possible to do this work and keep your soul intact.

Barry: While you search for that role, you're juggling some creative ways to make ends meet.

Brett: Yes — graphic design, line dance instruction, working at my gym, bartending the occasional art gallery. I think everyone needs a good "grunt work" season. It keeps you grateful. And honestly, I've met remarkable people in every one of those jobs.

 Barry: One last question — you're a competitive powerlifter?

Brett: I am. Health is huge in my family, and training gives me discipline and a place to see real progress. I'm wired for self-competition — watching yourself get stronger is a beautiful thing. I've got a big meet coming up in October. I'm ready.

Brett Payne is a 2025 Belmont University graduate and emerging music industry professional based in Nashville, Tennessee. If you would like to talk to Brett about an internship or position with your organization, you can reach him at brettbasspayne@outlook.com  or at his mobile number at: (281) 825-9109

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